Abstract

By taking appropriate action, Health Care Reform can contribute significantly to the alleviation of patient and family suffering. High-quality affordable health services characterized by patient access to information and choice will address the central issues of the public debate. However, new and different care modalities and partnerships are needed to achieve desired outcomes. With appropriate recognition and support, the emerging field of palliative care will deliver on these challenges by (1) relieving symptoms including physical and emotional pain, (2) improving patient–professional communication and decision-making, and (3) coordinating care across settings.

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